The Internet is not a safe place. You probably know this already. The days when you were able to surf the net and download apps without the fear that all your data (photos, emails, documents) may be stolen or lost are gone. The most important question that you need to ask yourself when you open your computer is how to protect your private data. Unfortunately, a solution that is 100% bulletproof does not exist, but there options that lower the chances to be hacked and lose your essential data. My two cents: use both antivirus and VPN solutions.

Before going further and talk about VPN/antivirus protection here is a useful tip: regularly backup your data! As mentioned above there is no solution that adequately protects you while connected to the Internet. That is why you should backup your private information regularly (at least once a month) and keep the backup files offline, on DVDs or external hard-drives.

Why do you need Antivirus programs/Anti-malware protection?

The question is not whether you need an antivirus software, it’s whether you can afford not have such protection software installed.

You have probably heard about the recent Wannacry attacks. The malware encrypted the data from tens of thousands of computers from all over the World. And the unlocking key was “only” $300 payable in Bitcoin. An earlier version, named WeCry asked users for 0.1 bitcoin (currently worth $259) to unlock files and programs.

According to a recent study, an individual is the target of a ransomware attack every 10 seconds. That is why you need to have an antivirus/anti-malware/anti-ransomware installed on your computer.

Why do you need a VPN?

Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a must when it comes to online security. Browsing the Internet using unsecured public WiFi networks or even Wi-Fi networks other then the one from your home may be a mistake. A Wi-Fi network can be easily spied, and your sensitive data (passwords, credit card info, browsing habits, and other personal information) can be stolen while browsing the Web. Even your ISP (Internet Service Provider) is able and probably is monitoring your Internet traffic.

By using a VPN, your Internet connection is secured, and all data that is leaving your computer is encrypted. Do I need to say more?

For your protection: VPN and antivirus/anti-malware

Nowadays everyone that is connecting to the Internet should have antivirus and VPN solutions (Virtual Private Networks) installed. It is not something beautiful to have; it is a must. Hiding your IP address and keeping your data private is not an option.

ibVPN summer bundle offer

And now, here is an exciting proposition: antivirus and VPN bundle during the summer of 2017. ibVPN, one of the best VPN (in my opinion) on the market, has an extraordinary summer promotion: buy the annual plan for their UltimateVPN package and get the Bitdefender Total Security Pack 2017 for free.

Antivirus and VPN - Bitdefender & ibVPN

Here is what you get from both products:

  • ibVPN – UltimateVPN:

    • Fast VPN for all devices
    • Advanced security features: DoubleVPN, TorOverVPN, Proxy
    • Easy to use VPN software for PC, Mac, iOS, Android.
    • Advanced VPN protocols: Stealth VPN, Softether, SSTP.
    • Torrent tools: P2P servers, Socks5, Kill Switch
    • A long list of server locations.
    • ibDNS/SmartDNS

  • Bitdefender – Total Security 2017:

    • Cross-platform anti-virus (mobile security included)
    • Effective anti-ransomware
    • Unbeatable malware detection
    • Privacy, anti-theft and data protection

Why do you I think this is a great offer?

Firstly, ibVPN is an excellent VPN service. I use them for more than seven years, and I am delighted with the quality of their service and the outstanding support.

Secondly, according to AV-Test, Bitdefender is one of the best antivirus solutions. It provides great Internet security with an excellent level of antivirus protection against a large variety of online threats. Plus, according to recent news, the Romanian security solution is actively fighting against CIA and other types of governmental hackers.

Thirdly, the price is right. For the regular price of the UltimateVPN package, annual plan, which is $58.06 you get the annual license of Bitdefender Total Security 2017 valued at $49.99 for free. It looks like a great summer offer!

What do you think?

How do you protect yourself while connected to the Internet? Do you regularly backup your data? Are you using VPN and antivirus solutions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.